What Does a Board Certified Orthodontist Do for You?
Learn what board certified means, how to verify credentials, and what to ask before choosing an orthodontist in Lakewood Ranch.
Key Takeaways
- Board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics is voluntary and separate from a state license; it requires passing written and clinical exams reviewed by peers.
- Verify credentials yourself through the ABO website or the AAO locator instead of relying on ads or website claims.
- Certification must be renewed every 10 years with ongoing requirements, so a certified orthodontist keeps proving current knowledge over time.
- A general dentist may handle simple cases, but complex bites and jaw concerns call for an orthodontist with extra specialty training.
- Ask whether the orthodontist is currently ABO certified, what experience they have with cases like yours, and what total fees and payment plans apply.
- Many orthodontists suggest an early evaluation around age 7 to spot growth or bite concerns, though this does not always mean immediate braces.
If you have ever searched for a board certified orthodontist Lakewood Ranch families can trust, you probably noticed something fast: lots of offices use big words and fancy titles. It can feel like a lot. Whether you are a mom planning braces for your 12-year-old, a busy professional who wants clear aligners, or an adult fixing a smile that shifted after old braces, you deserve clear answers.
Here is the good news. Understanding what "board certified" really means is easier than it sounds. It helps you ask smart questions and feel confident about who is caring for your smile. In this friendly guide, we will walk through what board certification is, how it differs from a license, how to check credentials, and what to ask at your first visit. Think of it as a chat with a knowledgeable friend over coffee.
What Does Board Certified Mean for an Orthodontist?
Let's start with the basics. In the United States, an orthodontist is a dentist who completes extra specialty training after dental school. That training focuses on straightening teeth and guiding jaw growth, which is called orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Board certification is a separate step. It is a voluntary credential, which means an orthodontist chooses to pursue it. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) awards it after an orthodontist meets eligibility requirements and passes both written and clinical examinations. The clinical part looks at real patient treatment and results.
So when you see a board certified orthodontist, you are seeing someone who went the extra mile to have their work reviewed by their peers. That is a pretty good sign of commitment.
Board Certification vs. State License
These two terms get mixed up a lot. They are not the same thing. Here is a simple side-by-side look.
| Credential | What It Means | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| State License | Legal permission to practice dentistry in the state | Yes |
| Orthodontic Specialty Training | Extra years of education in braces, aligners, and jaw growth | Needed to practice as an orthodontist |
| ABO Board Certification | Passed written and clinical exams reviewed by the Board | No, it is voluntary |
In short, a license says someone is allowed to practice. Board certification says they chose to be tested at a higher level. Both matter, but they tell you different things.
Why Board Certification Matters to Families and Adults
You might wonder if it really makes a difference in your daily life. It can give you extra peace of mind. Orthodontic care often lasts one to three years, so you want a provider you trust from day one.
Here is why many patients like seeing a board certified orthodontist:
- Proven skill: The clinical exam checks real treatment results, not just book knowledge.
- Ongoing learning: Certification must be renewed, so the orthodontist keeps current.
- Confidence: You can feel good knowing your care plan was shaped by someone who chose extra review.
- Clear standards: It gives you something solid to compare when choosing between offices.
That said, credentials are only one piece of the puzzle. Comfort, communication, and a team that makes you feel welcome matter just as much. We will get to that in a moment.
How Does ABO Certification Actually Work?
Let's peek behind the curtain. The ABO says candidates may take the written exam after completing at least 18 months of a CODA-accredited orthodontic program. After that, they move on to the clinical assessment, where their treated cases are evaluated.
Certification is also time-limited. According to the ABO, certified orthodontists must complete certification renewal requirements every 10 years and meet ongoing requirements, including paying an annual fee, to keep their certified status. Because requirements can change, it is smart to confirm the latest details directly with the Board.
This renewal cycle is a big deal. It means a board certified orthodontist keeps proving their knowledge over time, not just once at the start of a career.
How to Verify a Board Certified Orthodontist in Lakewood Ranch
Here is a tip I love sharing: do not rely only on ads or website claims. A quick check takes just a few minutes. If you want a deeper walkthrough, our guide on how to verify a board certified orthodontist in 2026 breaks it down step by step.
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the ABO website and look for its certified orthodontist information.
- Use the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) online locator to find specialists near you.
- Search the orthodontist's name and confirm they are listed with current certification.
- Ask the office directly. A good team will happily tell you about their credentials.
- Confirm office details like address and hours, since listings can change.
Local listings identify board certified providers serving the area, including Dr. Flor Segovia at Segovia Orthodontics, 5803 Braden Run, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202. Always confirm current credentials yourself, since details can change over time.
Orthodontist vs. General Dentist: What Is the Difference?
This question comes up all the time, especially from parents. Some general dentists offer braces or clear aligners, and that is okay. But an orthodontist has completed additional years of specialty education focused only on moving teeth and shaping bites.
- General dentist: Cares for overall oral health, like cleanings and fillings. Some offer limited orthodontic services.
- Orthodontist: A dentist with extra specialty training who focuses on alignment, bite, and jaw growth.
- Board certified orthodontist: An orthodontist who also passed the ABO exams.
If your case is simple, a general dentist may help. If your bite is complex, or you want a team that does this every single day, a specialist is a great fit. You can read more in our post on orthodontist vs. dentist: who should you see.
What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Consultation
Nervous about your first visit? Totally normal. A consultation is simply a friendly conversation plus a close look at your smile. It helps determine whether you need early evaluation, braces, clear aligners, or another approach. It is not a promise that one appliance will work for everyone.
During your visit, you can usually expect:
- A review of your health and dental history
- A check of your bite, jaw, and tooth development
- Digital scans or photos to see the full picture
- A talk about your goals, whether that is a wedding, graduation, or just feeling confident
- An overview of timing, fees, and payment options
Want to feel fully prepared? Our guide on what really happens at your orthodontist consultation walks through the whole experience.
Questions Worth Asking
Bring a short list. Smart questions help you compare providers fairly. Try these:
- Are you currently ABO board certified?
- What experience do you have with cases like mine?
- Which treatment options fit my bite and lifestyle?
- How long will treatment likely take?
- What are the total fees, and do you offer payment plans?
- What happens if I have an emergency or a broken wire?
- How will you manage my retainer and keep results stable?
For even more ideas, see what questions to ask your orthodontist before treatment.
Braces or Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?
Great question, and the honest answer is: it depends. Your bite, your tooth development, your oral health, and your goals all play a role. A good orthodontist will explain your choices clearly rather than push one option.
| Option | Best For | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional braces | Complex bites and alignment needs | Fixed in place, so no trays to remember |
| WildSmiles braces | Kids and teens who want fun, custom shapes | Fun shapes can motivate better brushing |
| LightForce braces | Patients wanting digital, custom-fit braces | 3D-printed, custom brackets with clear or white options |
| Angel Aligners | Adults and teens wanting a discreet look | Removable clear trays, so you must wear them consistently |
Want to dig deeper? Our comparison of clear aligners vs. braces can help you decide, and our guide to braces vs. aligners cost in 2026 covers the money side.
Care for Every Age: Kids, Teens, and Adults
One of the best things about orthodontics is that there is a path for almost everyone. Different ages have different needs, and a caring team plans around them.
- Children: Early evaluation can spot growth or bite concerns while a child is still developing. Learn more in when should your child get braces in Lakewood Ranch.
- Teens: Treatment that fits sports, school, and busy schedules, often with fun options like WildSmiles.
- Adults: Discreet choices for professionals and anyone planning a big event, plus help for relapse after older braces.
If you are an adult who wore braces years ago and noticed your teeth moving, you are not alone. Read will my teeth relapse after clear aligners for helpful insight.
Making Treatment Fit Your Budget and Schedule
Let's be real: cost and time matter. Many patients want straight answers about fees before they commit. A trustworthy office will talk openly about pricing, insurance, and payment plans during your visit.
You can learn more about what to expect in orthodontic treatment cost: what you'll really pay in 2026. And if monthly payments help your budget, check out orthodontist payment plans: a simple guide for 2026.
Busy schedule? Ask about appointment flexibility. Many families and working adults choose a practice that respects their time, so visits do not take over the week.
Why Local Care in Lakewood Ranch Feels Different
Choosing someone close to home has real perks. Shorter drives, familiar faces, and a team that knows the community make treatment feel easier. At Segovia Orthodontics, Dr. Flor Segovia is a board certified orthodontist who offers bilingual care in English and Spanish, uses advanced technology, and focuses on a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere.
Want to see what neighbors say? You can visit us on Google and read what Segovia Orthodontics patients share. You can also follow along with smile stories on our Facebook page and our Instagram page.
If you are still comparing options around town, our post on 10 ways to pick the best orthodontist in Lakewood Ranch FL offers a handy checklist.
Your Next Step Toward a Smile You Love
Choosing a board certified orthodontist in Lakewood Ranch is really about feeling confident and cared for. Credentials give you a solid starting point, and a warm, clear conversation helps you take the next step. Remember to verify certification with the ABO or AAO, ask plenty of questions, and pick the team that makes you feel at ease.
Ready to chat about your smile goals? You can request an appointment online, contact us with questions, or call us at 941-557-1333. We cannot wait to meet you and help you smile with confidence.
FAQs
Q: What does it mean to be a board certified orthodontist?
A: It means the orthodontist chose to earn extra certification from the American Board of Orthodontics by passing written and clinical exams. It is a voluntary credential, separate from a state license, and it shows a commitment to high standards.
Q: How can I verify a board certified orthodontist in Lakewood Ranch?
A: You can check the American Board of Orthodontics website or use the American Association of Orthodontists locator. You can also simply ask the office, since a friendly team will gladly share their credentials.
Q: Is board certification required for orthodontists in Florida?
A: No, board certification is voluntary. Orthodontists need a state license and specialty training to practice, but ABO certification is an extra step some choose to take to show added skill.
Q: At what age should my child have an orthodontic evaluation?
A: Many orthodontists suggest an early check-up around age 7, when adult teeth begin to come in. An early visit does not always mean braces right away. It simply helps spot any growth or bite concerns early.
Q: Are braces or clear aligners better for me?
A: It really depends on your bite, your dental health, and your goals. Your orthodontist will look at your smile during a consultation and explain which option fits you best.